how does a disabled person find a good attorney

by Jensen Kertzmann II 7 min read

You can also find an experienced disability attorney by:

  • Contacting your local Bar Association,
  • Doing online research,
  • Looking in the phone book,
  • Reading reviews, or
  • Asking your attorney.

Collectively, the P&A/CAP network is the largest provider of legally based advocacy services to people with disabilities in the United States. To find your local Protection and Advocacy agency and Client Assistance Program in each state, go to - http://www.ndrn.org/en/ndrn-member-agencies.html .

Full Answer

How do I find a disability lawyer?

In order to find a disability lawyer, you should gather referrals from a variety of sources and then look at the lawyers’ websites. Before hiring an attorney, be sure to meet for a consultation. Ask friends or family. You can get referrals by asking anyone you know who has used a disability lawyer in the past if they would recommend their attorney.

Do I need a lawyer to represent me at a disability hearing?

An attorney doesn't need to be licensed to represent claimants at disability hearings; in fact, a claimant's representative need not be an attorney at all. However, a licensed attorney may have a better understanding of Social Security law. This is because attorneys receive special training in how to read and interpret statutes and case law.

What questions should I Ask my disability lawyer?

Also, your lawyer must be able to an attorney who is licensed to practice law in federal court if your claim ever gets appealed to that level. Here are some additional questions you can ask to get an idea of the attorney's expertise. "How many years have you practiced disability law?"

What should I avoid when hiring a disability lawyer?

Avoid a lawyer who promises a specific outcome. Any attorney who promises a certain result is behaving unethically. For example, an attorney cannot promise that you will get approved for disability or that your case will go faster if you hire the lawyer.

How to find a disability attorney?

How to get a disability lawyer?

How long does a disability consultation last?

How to get referrals for disability?

How much do disability attorneys charge?

What to do if a lawyer does not handle disability cases?

What is the purpose of asking questions about disability?

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What to look for when calling a disability attorney?

When you call a potential attorney, pay attention to the level of professionalism and treatment you are given by the attorney and staff. Even though disability firms are generally busy places, you should still receive timely callbacks and be given the chance to ask questions.

What does a good attorney do?

A good attorney will give you an honest assessment of your case only after reviewing the facts. A good attorney will also admit that he or she probably can't get you approved any faster than you could on your own. Here is a sample question you should ask and a sample answer a good attorney should give you:

Do disability firms keep in touch?

Even though disability firms are busy places, you should be provided with a contact person who you can rely on to answer your questions. The firm should also keep in touch with you on a regular basis. Here are some questions you should ask to get an idea of how your case will be handled:

Can you speak to a disability attorney?

Don't be put off if you can't speak to the attorney the first time you call, or if you are asked to speak to a staff member for help with a question. This is because experienced disability attorneys spend most of their time in hearings and rely on their staff to field calls. However, a good firm should allow you to schedule a free consultation ...

Can a disability firm accept children's cases?

Not all disability firms will accept children's cases, and those that do may not have much experience with them. If you are filing on behalf of a child, make sure that the firm you deal with has experience with childhood disability questions.

Does Nolo have a disability license?

Nolo has confirmed that every listed attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with their bar association.

Where Can I Find a Disability Lawyer?

The internet has made it easier to find service providers, like attorneys. The disability legal practice is quite broad so there are likely to be listings of lawyers in different places.

How can disability claims be handled?

Many disability claims can be handled quickly if the paperwork is filled out correctly or you are able to adequately explain why your circumstances meet the criteria for benefits payment.

What is the importance of finding a lawyer?

Finding a lawyer can be a daunting prospect. Lawyers are specialized and it is important that you find one who deals specifically with your type of legal issue. This is particularly so when dealing with a disability, which can have varied definitions based on specific programs and statutes.

Can a disability lawyer help you?

A lawyer who specializes in your disability doesn’t need to spend as much time getting up to speed on the law in order to determine the best legal steps for you. That can also significantly affect how much you end up paying the lawyer out-of-pocket to pursue your claim. They may also have access to the best experts in the field and be able to let you know what sort of outcome you can expect in your situation.

Should I Consult With a Lawyer to Help with My Disability Related Lawsuit?

In any event, consider consulting with a legal expert in a timely fashion to ensure that you are protecting your rights.

Who is the best person to ask for recommendations?

The best people to ask for recommendations are people who have been in a similar situation to the one you are in. These individuals understand what you are facing and will be able to help you find the right advocates and resources.

Do you have to work with a disability lawyer before?

You may not have worked with a disability lawyer before, but you may have a previous relationship with a lawyer of another specialty, such as a real estate or divorce attorney. If you do, it would be a good idea to ask that lawyer for a reference. Most attorneys will be more familiar with other lawyers’ work than the general population, even if they are in different specialties.

How to find a disability attorney?

Nolo, a website which focuses on the law, runs a directory of disability attorneys that you can use. You can click on your state and then type in your zip code.

How to get a disability lawyer?

Other people hire an attorney when they first apply for benefits. In order to find a disability lawyer, you should gather referrals from a variety of sources and then look at the lawyers’ websites. Before hiring an attorney, be sure to meet for a consultation.

How long does a disability consultation last?

You should be able to get a free consultation with a disability attorney. It usually will last from 15-30 minutes. Call your top two or three lawyers and ask to schedule a consultation. Don’t be surprised if you don’t talk to the lawyer directly.

How to get referrals for disability?

Ask friends or family. You can get referrals by asking anyone you know who has used a disability lawyer in the past if they would recommend their attorney. Co-workers may be a good source of information as well.

How much do disability attorneys charge?

The law also limits how much disability attorneys can collect. Generally, a disability attorney can only collect as a fee 25% of your past-due benefits up to a maximum of $6,000.

What to do if a lawyer does not handle disability cases?

If the lawyer does not handle disability cases like your own, then you should be told that fact. Thank the person for their time and ask if they can recommend a lawyer who does handle cases involving your disability.

What is the purpose of asking questions about disability?

The purpose of these questions is to see if your case is something that the lawyer regularly handles. For example, some lawyers do not handle children’s disability cases.

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